HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. – The Hamilton County Board of Education Thursday night in a five to four vote selected Dr. Bryan Johnson as the next Hamilton County Department of Education Superintendent.

Dr. Johnson brings with him a wealth of experience in education. He is the Chief Academic Officer for Clarksville-Montgomery Schools in Tennessee, where he has worked since 2008. Dr. Johnson began his career as Teacher and Director of Education at Oak Plains Academy in 2004. The former teacher and football coach received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Professional Practice (Ed.D.) from Trevecca Nazarene University in 2010.

“I am honored to come into Hamilton County Schools and am proud to work with the teachers and leaders who are working to move the district forward. I definitely want to recognize the community and the work that they are doing to improve student achievement. My family and I are just elated to become a part of the community,” Dr. Johnson said following the vote Thursday evening.

School Board Chair Dr. Steve Highlander said he is delighted, that after the transparent and diligent search that included community input and interviews with nine excellent candidates, the Board decided Dr. Johnson has the vision to move HCDE forward. “We had great candidates. I am appreciative for all of the five who interviewed with us. I am also appreciative of the service Dr. Kelly has given, and hope he will continue to do so,” said Dr. Highlander.

Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger said he is pleased with the selection. “I look forward to working with Superintendent Johnson. Now is the time for my office and the Superintendent to work closely together to show Hamilton County residents progress in the schools and results that will elicit community support,” Mayor Coppinger said.

The formal start date for the new Superintendent will be announced once it is finalized.